Hong Kong SAR: Old Hong Kong Identity Cards to Be Invalidated in Phases by 2025
June 24, 2024
The government of Hong Kong SAR recently announced that they will invalidate Hong Kong identity cards issued before November 26, 2018, in two phases by 2025. Phase I will cover individuals born in 1970 or after, whose cards will become invalid on May 12, 2025. Phase II will cover individuals born in 1969 or before, with their cards becoming invalid on October 12, 2025. This new policy covers all permanent and non-permanent Hong Kong residents. Residents can apply for replacement new identity cards at the Registration of Persons (ROP) - Kwun Tong (Temporary) Office or during extended service hours at four designated ROP offices: Hong Kong Office, Kowloon Office, Tseung Kwan O Office, or Tuen Mun Office. Individuals who are outside Hong Kong SAR during the specified call-up periods should replace their identity cards within 30 days of their return. Additionally, the aged, blind, or infirm who cannot attend registration due to health concerns may apply for a Certificate of Exemption instead of a new identity card. Individuals who do not obtain a new identity card without a reasonable excuse can be fined up to HKD 5,000. However, the invalidation will not affect the right to live and work in Hong Kong SAR unless the holder has lost permanent resident status, although it may restrict their ability to use the e-channel at the Hong Kong airport.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Media mentions
Senior Associate Clara Gautrais and Immigration Paralegal Sean Pearce outline the impact of new visa skill requirements and sponsorship rules on UK construction firms.
Media mentions
This article in Irish Legal News covers the firm's recent announcement of its new office opening in Cork, Ireland.
Media mentions
Director Audrey Morew outlines how US retirees may apply for Finnish residency under the “residence permit on other grounds” route.
Media mentions
Partner Louise Haycock explains how the UK’s decision to double the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain is creating uncertainty for international talent and increasing pressure on employers.
Fragomen news
Fragomen announces the appointment of Partner Daniel Brown to the position of Chief Executive Officer of WorkRight U.S., the firm’s I-9 employee verification technology.
Fragomen news
Fragomen earned top rankings in Chambers USA 2025, with Band 1 recognition nationally.
Media mentions
San Diego Managing Partner Karine Wenger discussed the upcoming Olympic immigration landscape and potential challenges for international participants.
Media mentions
Partner Daniel Pierce notes that limited social media activity or private accounts could lead to greater scrutiny for international students applying for US visas.
Fragomen news
Fragomen announces the opening of a new office in Cork, expanding its presence in Ireland to better support clients across the country's southern and western regions.
Awards
Fragomen is ranked both nationally and locally in "Best Law Firms in Australia" by The Best Lawyers.
Awards
Global Mobility Lawyer recognises Senior Immigration Manager Wout van Doren and Manager Tanya Loughran as Tomorrow's Leaders.
Media mentions
Senior Associate Clara Gautrais and Immigration Paralegal Sean Pearce outline the impact of new visa skill requirements and sponsorship rules on UK construction firms.
Media mentions
This article in Irish Legal News covers the firm's recent announcement of its new office opening in Cork, Ireland.
Media mentions
Director Audrey Morew outlines how US retirees may apply for Finnish residency under the “residence permit on other grounds” route.
Media mentions
Partner Louise Haycock explains how the UK’s decision to double the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain is creating uncertainty for international talent and increasing pressure on employers.
Fragomen news
Fragomen announces the appointment of Partner Daniel Brown to the position of Chief Executive Officer of WorkRight U.S., the firm’s I-9 employee verification technology.
Fragomen news
Fragomen earned top rankings in Chambers USA 2025, with Band 1 recognition nationally.
Media mentions
San Diego Managing Partner Karine Wenger discussed the upcoming Olympic immigration landscape and potential challenges for international participants.
Media mentions
Partner Daniel Pierce notes that limited social media activity or private accounts could lead to greater scrutiny for international students applying for US visas.
Fragomen news
Fragomen announces the opening of a new office in Cork, expanding its presence in Ireland to better support clients across the country's southern and western regions.
Awards
Fragomen is ranked both nationally and locally in "Best Law Firms in Australia" by The Best Lawyers.
Awards
Global Mobility Lawyer recognises Senior Immigration Manager Wout van Doren and Manager Tanya Loughran as Tomorrow's Leaders.